Rwanda , commonly known as ‘the land of a thousand hills’ is beautiful country with six volcanoes, twenty-three lakes and numerous rivers, some forming the source of the great River Nile. The Parc National des Volcans, in northern Rwanda is home to the world’s largest number of endangered Mountain Gorillas. The gorillas can be viewed in their natural mountain habitats through organized gorilla tours at a very close range.
The Mountain Gorilla are only found on the mountains of Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo and are listed as one of the top 10 most endangered species on Earth. There are approximately 350 gorillas in the Volcano and Virunga Mountains of Rwanda and Congo and another separate group of approximately 300 in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. There are no Mountain Gorillas living outside of their native mountain forest home or in captivity.
Track the Mountain Gorilla’s in the unique vegetation of the Virunga volcanoes and enjoy the spectacular landscapes of Rwanda’s hills and the serenity of Lake Kivu’s shores.
ITINERARY
Day 1 – ARRIVAL – KINIGI - Meet in the morning on arrival at the airport. Visit the genocide memorial museum (optional). Follow the road as it climbs to the base of the majestic volcanoes, with spectacular views across the five peaks. Depending on arrival time picnic lunch en route or lunch at Muhabura hotel in Ruhengeri. Continue toward Kinigi.
Overnight: Mountain Gorillas’ Nest (LD)
Day 2 – MOUNTAIN GORILLAS - As the first light of dawn breaks through the curtain of mist clinging to the summits of Karisimbi, Bisoke, Sabyniyo, Gahinga and Muhabura, we make our way into the Parc National des Volcans. Tracking the gorillas through the unique vegetation can take several hours of challenging walking in wet and muddy conditions. To see a gorilla, the trek will have been worth the hardship. After lunch at Mountain Gorillas Nest, continue toward Gisenyi, a nice small town, located on the northern shore of Lake Kivu.
Overnight: Kivu Sun (BLD)
Day 3 - LAKE KIVU – KIGALI – DEPARTURE - Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the calm and pristine waters of Africa’s highest lake. From the terrace of your hotel enjoy the fantastic views over Lake Kivu and its ragged shore. Drive back to Kigali. Time permitting lunch at Hotel des 1000 Collines, otherwise picnic lunch en route. Transfer to the airport. (BL)
1 Gorilla permit ($375 per person) (From June 07, $500 per person)
All transfers and airport assistance
All accommodation and meals
Mineral Water & Sodas
1 night FB at Gorilla’s Nest
1 night FB at Kivu Sun
All transportation in 4x4 Vehicles
English speaking park guide
English speaking driver/guide
EXCLUDES
Gratuities
Items of a personal nature
Juice & alcoholic drinks
Travel Insurance